What is the relationship between stress and nutrition?

The option that states stress can lead to poor dietary choices and nutrient deficiencies is correct because stress has a significant impact on eating behaviors and nutritional intake. When individuals experience stress, they may resort to unhealthy eating patterns such as increased consumption of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods. This response is often driven by emotional factors or a desire for comfort, which can lead to overconsumption or cravings for sugary and fatty foods.

Additionally, stress can impair the digestive system, leading to difficulties in nutrient absorption and contributing to nutrient deficiencies over time. The physiological responses to stress, such as the release of cortisol, can alter metabolism and appetite regulation. Therefore, it is important to recognize that stress not only affects what one chooses to eat but can also compromise overall nutritional health and lead to imbalances in the body, exacerbating the cycle of stress and poor nutrition. Understanding this relationship is essential for developing effective nutritional strategies to manage stress and promote overall health.